Panna (Emerald) Buying Guide

Colour comes first

The most prized emeralds are a vivid, slightly bluish green that is neither too dark nor too pale. Very dark stones can look black indoors; very light ones are closer to green beryl. Look at the stone in daylight and under shop lights, because the colour shifts.

Clarity and inclusions

Inclusions in emerald are called jardin (garden). Some are expected; what matters is that they do not reach the surface as cracks or make the stone look cloudy. Emerald is 7.5–8 on the hardness scale but brittle, so avoid stones with surface-reaching fissures for an everyday ring.

The rectangular emerald cut with cut corners was developed for this stone because it protects the corners and shows the colour well.

Oiling, treatment and certificates

Most emeralds are treated with oil or resin to fill fine fissures; this is standard in the trade. What you should know is the degree: minor, moderate or significant. Ask for a report from an independent gem laboratory. It confirms the stone is natural, states its weight in carats and lists any treatment. We can arrange testing for any stone you choose from us.

In India stones are often weighed in ratti: one ratti is roughly 0.9 carat, so a 5-ratti stone is about 4.5 carats.

How Panna is traditionally worn

In Vedic astrology Panna is the stone of Budh (Mercury) and is traditionally set in gold and worn on the little finger, often first put on on a Wednesday. These are traditional beliefs, not proven effects. Many families consult their own astrologer for the stone, weight, finger and day to wear it; we are happy to work to their advice.

Care

Clean with lukewarm water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam and hot water, which can remove the oil and make fissures show. Take the ring off for heavy work.

Panna (Emerald) at Arihant Jewellers

• Emerald (Panna) — Emerald Cut
• Deep Green Emerald (Panna)

Questions